Damburneya salicifolia
Damburneya salicifolia · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Damburneya salicifolia is a botanical species known to contain the specialized chemical compound (+)-costaricine. Researchers have investigated the plant's medicinal potential by focusing on its leaf and root components. Specifically, studies have examined its biological activity against the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Furthermore, the plant's effects on vascular smooth muscle cells provide critical insights into its physiological impact. This combination of chemical properties and biological targets makes the species a subject of significant pharmacological interest.
- Synonyms
- Laurus Granadensis · Nectandra Salicifolia · 4 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Lauraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Leaf · Root
Classification
Common Names
Damburneya salicifolia is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of regional identifiers. Depending on the local area, it is frequently referred to by the common name Buka. In other communities, the species is known as Capulincillo, highlighting its distinct botanical identity. It also carries the traditional names Quizarrá and ojte, reflecting its deep cultural integration. These various names underscore the plant's widespread presence and linguistic significance across different landscapes.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Damburneya salicifolia is a plant species characterized by a complex taxonomic history involving several different botanical names. Throughout scientific study, it has been identified by various synonyms, including Laurus granadensis and Laurus splendens. Researchers have also categorized the species under different names within the Nectandra genus, such as Nectandra cayoana and Nectandra loeseneri. Furthermore, the name Nectandra salicifolia has been utilized to describe the same organism in different contexts. Understanding these overlapping relationships is essential for accurately documenting the plant's identity in botanical literature.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Damburneya salicifolia is a distinctive botanical species belonging to the kingdom Plantae. Within this vast biological realm, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. This plant is further defined by its placement in the order Laurales. It serves as a representative member of the genus Damburneya. Finally, its taxonomic identity is completed by its membership in the family Lauraceae.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Lauraceae |
| Genus | Damburneya |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Damburneya salicifolia maintains a wide and diverse geographic footprint across several key regions. Its distribution spans across North America and extends deep into various parts of Mexico. Specifically, the species can be found throughout Mexico Central and the Mexico Gulf regions. It is also established in the Mexico Northeast and Mexico Northwest territories. Furthermore, its presence is noted within the Mexico Southeast, illustrating its broad environmental adaptability.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Damburneya salicifolia is a self-supporting plant that exhibits a distinct tree-like growth form. Reaching a maximum height of 23 meters, it stands as a significant presence within its natural habitat. This structural stability and impressive stature make it a notable species in its ecosystem.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Compounds
Damburneya salicifolia, also known as Nectandra salicifolia, has been identified as a source of the novel bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid known as costaricine. Researchers isolated this specific compound from the trunk bark and roots of the plant during a diversity-based collection in a Costa Rican montane rainforest. Once extracted, costaricine demonstrated significant antiplasmodial activity in in vitro assays targeting Plasmodium falciparum. Notably, the compound showed promising potency against both chloroquine-sensitive and chloroquine-resistant clones of the parasite. These findings highlight the medicinal potential inherent in the chemical profile of this particular plant species.
Conditions
Damburneya salicifolia, also known as Nectandra salicifolia, demonstrates significant medicinal potential through its diverse biological activities. The plant contains the alkaloid costaricine, which effectively treats Plasmodium falciparum by inhibiting its growth in both sensitive and resistant strains. Beyond its antiplasmodial properties, this species acts as a potent relaxant for vascular smooth muscle. Research involving pre-contracted rat aortic tissue confirms its ability to induce relaxation in these tissues. These combined findings highlight the plant's value in treating both malaria and conditions related to vascular tension.
Preparations
Parts used
Damburneya salicifolia is a plant species that possesses several distinct anatomical components used in botanical studies. Research indicates that this species has a leaf component, often studied alongside twigs for chemical analysis. Additionally, the plant features a root system that serves as a significant source for isolating various alkaloids. Scientific investigations have successfully extracted specific compounds from both the leaves and the roots of the specimen. Understanding these structural relationships is essential for identifying the diverse chemical profiles found within the plant.